A3 Emotional development across the life stages

Question 1

What is Bowlby’s attachment theory?

Answer 1

Attachment It is a deep emotional bond that connects a child to their primary caregiver. Attachment forms between birth and 2&1/2 years old. If an attachment isn’t
formed then, it might not form at all.
Monotropy – Is an innate need to form an attachment to the main caregiver. A chid is biologically pre-programmed to form attachments. Positive
attachments are formed during infancy, these will give the child the emotional resources to cope with life’s uncertainties. Attachments made will form the
model for future attachments. If this attachment is disrupted it can have a negative effect on the child’s development, if secure attachments aren’t
formed it reduces the child’s ability to cope with stresses and major events through life.
Schaffer and Emerson take it a step further where they believe 0-3 months responds to any care giver. 4-7months preference for primary CG. 7-9 months
prefers Primary CG and seeks comfort from them when upset, shows fear of strangers and upset when parted from main CG. At 10months + Child will
start to form attachments with others to respond to them, by 18moths multiple attachments have been formed.

Question 2

What are criticisms of Bowlby’s theory?

Answer 2

Criticisms- Bowlby’s theory is too simple
They believe that attachment can be a learnt behaviour influenced by the environment, their culture and the child’s temperament.
Mary Ainsworth says there are different type of attachments (secure- shows distress when caregiver leaves and seeks comfort from CG when upset. Is
happy with strangers as long as CG is present. Insecure/avoidant – child doesn’t show distress when CG leaves and may got to a stranger for comfort.
Insecure/Resistant – shows distress when CG leaves but resists their contact on return, shows anxiety and insecurity. Quality of the attachment is what
matters not the quantity - Babies respond better to those who respond to them such as communicating, playing etc., not just the person who spends the
most time with them.

Question 3

What is self-concept?

Answer 3

he development and importance of self-concept:
factors involved in the development of a positive or negative self-esteem can include life experiences, family, relationships, your circumstances, your
health, emotional development and attachments made, your achievements in life and your culture.
* Self image is how individuals see themselves and is influenced by how they feel they are perceived by others
* Self esteem is how individuals value and feel about themselves – positive or negative
* Self concept is a combination of self image and esteem.